Delhi Air Quality Remains Poor for Fourth Consecutive Day Despite Government Efforts

Strategic Insights -

The air quality in Delhi has shown no signs of improvement, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the "poor" category for the fourth consecutive day. The 24-hour average AQI for Delhi was recorded at 245 on Thursday, with transport emissions being the largest contributor to the city's air pollution. The Air Quality Early Warning System forecast shows similar air quality for the coming days, with no respite expected for the city. As the winter season sets in, stubble burning in adjoining states and the Diwali festival are expected to worsen the air quality.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remained in the "poor" category for the fourth consecutive day, with a 24-hour average AQI of 245 on Thursday.
  • Transport emissions accounted for 18.7% of total emissions in Delhi on Thursday, making it the largest contributor to the city's air pollution.
  • The Air Quality Early Warning System forecast shows similar air quality for the coming days, with no respite expected for the city.
  • The Delhi government has allowed the sale and use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, with a series of measures to enforce compliance, including designated sale locations and patrol teams to monitor compliance.
  • Vulnerable populations, including infants, children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with asthma, COPD, or heart disease, face the worst impact of poor air quality.
  • Experts have called for caution and awareness ahead of Diwali as Delhi's pollution levels are beginning to rise.

Statistics:

  • Delhi's AQI on Thursday: 245 (24-hour average)
  • Transport emissions contribution to total emissions: 18.7% (on Thursday)
  • AQI categories according to CPCB:

- Good: 0-50

- Satisfactory: 51-100

- Moderate: 101-200

- Poor: 201-300

- Very Poor: 301-400

- Severe: 401-500

  • Number of days Delhi's AQI has remained in the "good" category: 1 (from June 11 to late last week)
  • Number of days Delhi's AQI has remained in the "poor" category: 4 (consecutive)

Sources:

  • "Delhi's air quality remains poor for fourth consecutive day." Hindustan Times, 17 Oct.
  • "Delhi government permits sale, use of green firecrackers on test case basis during Diwali." Hindustan Times, 16 Oct.